Social Networking websites provide "a virtual community for people interested in a particular subject or to 'hang-out' together" (McAfee). They allow people to create profiles, interact, connect, and collaborate with other members. Through social networking websites, members can share documents, share photos, chat, leave messages, and play virtual games together. Social networking has become extremely popular among children and teen communities and is growing in prevalence in the adult community as well. Therefore, due to the large number of participants on social networking websites and the many tools social networking has to offer, educators have started to utilize it in schools. Social networking sites offer educators and students many different opportunities, benefits and forms of communication and collaboration. If used effectively, social networking sites can enhance both teaching and learning experiences and create a much more interactive classroom. However, as with all new technology, there are risks and dangers associated with social networking websites. To name a few, children could be exposed to internet predators, scam artists, child molestors and malicious adware. Therefore, it is important that parents and educators are aware of both the benefits and risks associated with social networking so they can enforce safe social networking practices both in school and at home. The resources on this wiki will help educators and parents understand the many uses and risks of social networking sites and provide guidelines and suggestions on how to use social networking sites successfully, effectively and safely.
Still confused about social networking?
Watch this video developed by common craft that describes social networking in plain English:
Social Networking has become so imbedded in students' lives that the National School Boards Association has conducted a research study to analyze its impact on students' lives. To learn about what students are doing on social networking sites and to see some statistics about social networking read this study:http://www.nsba.org/site/docs/41400/41340.pdf (JF) Essential Questions: 1. How can social networking sites be used in schools in a positive way to enhance education? 2. What are the potential dangers of social networking? 3. What can parents and teachers do to help protect students on social networking sites?
How can social networking sites be used in schools in a positive way to enhance education?
Keywords: education, social networks, social networking benefits in classroom, educators using social networking sites, social networking tools for educators, students and social networking
Books:
Farkas, Meredith G. “Social Software in Libraries: Building Collaboration, Communication, and Community Online.” Medford, NJ: Information Today, Inc, 2007. This book describes the many types of social software that school and public libraries can benefit from today. Educators can learn about different types of social networking software such as blogs, RSS, photo-sharing and much more. This book also contains stories about how librarians have successfully implemented these tools into their libraries and discusses its tremendous impact on students and patrons. (JF) Richardson, Will. "Blogs, Wikis, Podcasts, and Other Powerful Web Tools for Classrooms." California: Corwin Press, 2008.
This book shows educators at all levels and disciplines how to use digital tools to create relevant, interactive learning experiences. (SK)
Journal Articles: Boule, Michelle. "Go With the Flow" School Library Journal 2008: Nov. 2008: 50-52. The article presents several talking points for those interested in promoting the use of social Web-based applications like social networking sites or blogs in school libraries. The article explains how social software can enhance learning by improving communication skills among other things, how to prevent students from accessing inappropriate material, and methods for protecting students' personal information when they are online. (SK) Cook, Glenn. “Social networking can work for K-12 educators.” American School Board Journal Sept. 2007: 6-7.
As students spend more and more time online in social networking sites, educators need to start embracing web 2.0 tools and take advantage of the many benefits social networking tools have to offer. This article provides recommendations on different uses of social networking tools such as: staff communication, professional development, homework assistance, creative teaching methods, and increasing educational value. School leaders need to bring 21st century skills to their students and social networking is one of the best ways to achieve this goal. (JF) Demski, Jennifer. "Facebook Training Wheels." THE Journal Apr. 2009: 24-28. The article discusses the use of online social networking websites to help schools incorporate technology into academics. The author profiles a technology director of the Ramapo Central School District who is using Saywire, an an online social networking and learning site designed specifically for in-house use by schools and students, to teach students about the usefulness of community websites. (SK)
DiScipio, Tim. “Adapting Social Networking to Address 21st-Century Skills.” Multimedia & Internet@Schools Oct. 2008: 10-11.
This article tells educators to look at ‘social networking’ as a ‘social learning network’ and provides examples of how social networking tools can be effectively utilized in a classroom. One of the main points this article emphasizes is the importance of helping students learn how to collaborate with peers and educators, and how through social networking sites, students can gain valuable skills as well as broaden their perspectives and culture awareness. These tools, when chosen thoughtfully, implemented appropriately and combined with innovative pedagogy through Internet-connected communities, can teach students the necessary skills to thrive in the 21st century. (SK + JF)
Kitsis, Stacy M. “The Facebook Generation: Homework as Social Networking.” English Journal Nov. 2008: 30-36.
Both students and educators are growing tired of the traditional paper and pen ways of submitting and grading papers. This article discusses how educators can place homework on social networking sites, which can make students value their work more, and allow both educators and students to provide feedback. Kitsis argues that many students “shut down” when they do not feel like they are writing to a real audience. Therefore, by placing homework on social networking sites, it no longer just feels like an assessment, it is a chance for individual practice and students are more likely to put effort into work that they know their peers will read. This article also gives accounts of educators’ personal experiences with using blogs, e-mail, and workplaces to enhance collaboration, cooperation, and collective learning in their classrooms. (JF) Lefkowits, Laura. "A New Face for Schools." American School Board Journal July 2008: 18-19. The article discusses the use of social networks to improve academic achievement for students. The author describes purposeful communities, social networks focused on producing specific outcomes through specific procedures, and compares them to social networking websites. She notes how networking websites allow users to exercise collective efficacy as well as police themselves and establish standards of conduct. Despite the use of online social networks for educational purposes, schools have banned their use. (SK)
Richardson, Will. "Becoming Network-Wise." Educational Leadership Mar. 2009: 26-31.
This article discusses the ways in which schools and educational leaders can make students more technologically literate. Students must learn to use connective online technologies like blogs, Wikis, and online social networking sites in order to be successful in the future. The author points out that students must not merely be able to use these technologies on a daily basis but must also be able to create personal connections online. (SK)
Sawchuk, Stephen. “Sites mimicking social networks set up for staff development.” Education Week Aug. 2008: 17-18.
In the past, it has been very hard for teachers who live thousands of miles away from each other to collaborate, but now with the internet and social networking tools, teachers that live in different countries can get together and learn from each other. This article discusses how novice teachers can now very easily learn from others and social networking sites help set up teacher-mentoring programs and assist with professional development. In addition, this article provides examples of many schools that are now converting regular websites and web portals into possible social networking sites (ones that have a more rigorous entry requirement in order to ensure that you really are an educator). These types of ‘social networks’ are designed for teachers that are not exactly ‘tech-savvy’ and want to make sure that they are collaborating with actual educators. (JF) Stewart, Paulette. "Facebook and Virtual Literature Circle Partnership in Building a Community of Readers." Knowledge Quest Apr. 2009: 28-33. This article focuses on the collaboration project of a high school librarian to conduct an experiment with a virtual literature circle using Facebook. It notes that the librarian has been outlining the educational benefits that social scholarship can provide for her students. (SK)
Websites: Kirkpatrick, Marshall. "How one teacher uses twitter in the classroom." ReadWriteWeb. <http://www.readwriteweb.com/archives/how_one_teacher_uses_twitter_in_the_classroom.php>
A university history professor uses Twitter to promote discussion in a large class. (SK)
Croasdaile, Susanne. "Social Networking with Students." Virginia Department of Education's Training and Technical Assistance Center (T/TAC) at VCU <http://udl4literacy.pbworks.com/Social-networking-with-students>
Step by step instructions for teachers new to using wikis, blogs, podcasts (SK)
Harris, Christopher. "School Library 2.0: Say Goodbye to Your Mother's School Library." School Library Journal, 2006.
<http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com/article/CA6330755.htmlschool%20library>
SLJ article discussing the digitally reshifted library and librarians and what media specialists must/should know to survive in the future (SK)
"Social Networks in Education." Wikispaces, Creative Commons. <http://socialnetworksined.wikispaces.com/>
Wiki providing links to educational sites using social networks (SK)
What are the potential dangers of social networking?
Keywords: Dangers of Social Networking, Problems with Social Networks, Protecting Your Kids Online,
Dangers on the internet, Security issues, cyber-bullying, risks of social networking
Books:
Espejo, Roman. Should My Space and Other Social Networking Websites Be Banned? (At Issue). New York: Greenhaven P, 2008.
This book explores different views about whether or not social networking sites should be banned, how they can be used as a teaching tool, how they are dangerous for children, and the important role they play in young people’s lives. While Espejo addresses the not so nice aspects of social networking including sexual predators, and child pornography, he also draws attention to its benefits and ways to keep minors safe. (KA)
Illian, Jason. MySpace®, MyKids A Parent's Guide to Protecting Your Kids and Navigating MySpace.com. New York: Harvest House, 2007.
MySpace has become a haven for teens and young adults, a virtual hangout where friends (and strangers) share thoughts, pictures, music, video, and more. Parent’s naturally wonder if they should be concerned and what they can do to protect their kids. In this valuable guide, Illian demonstrates that with careful use and close monitoring, MySpace can help kids facilitate relationships and help parents understand and interact with their children’s technology managed world. (KA)
Magid, Larry, and Anne Collier. MySpace Unraveled A Parent's Guide to Teen Social Networking. New York: Peachpit P, 2006.
This is a hand-on book that explores how teens are using MySpace and ways to help your kids use it safely. Magid and Collier remove the fear and hype surrounding social networking and take a clear-eyed look at what is really going on in online teen hangouts. They look at how young people are changing the Internet and how to guide them as they navigate the social Web. (KA)
Rothman, Kevin F. Coping With Dangers on the Internet A Teen's Guide to Staying Safe Online (Coping). New York: Rosen Group, 2000.
In this book, Rothman succeeds at informing inexperienced users, reminds the experienced what to be cautious of while using the Internet, and tells readers to be constantly aware while on-line. A page of common acronyms used in chat rooms and a page of emoticons will be helpful to new users. An enlightening and practical book. (KA) Journal Articles: Carter, Heather L., Foulger, Teresa S., Ewbank, Ann Dutton. “Have you Googled your Teacher Lately?: Teacher's Use of Social Networking Sites” Phi Delta Kappan May 2008: 681-685.
This article provides educators with real stories of some of the risks of using social networking in and outside of the classroom. By reading these situations, educators can learn how to avoid repeating other people’s mistakes and how to effectively use social networking sites while avoiding the dangers associated with it. After reading this article, educators should know how to separate personal sites from professional sites, understand that if they want to put something online make sure it is something they don’t mind sharing with the world, and avoid using inappropriate content (even if it is just meant for friends). While teachers do have free speech, the line between off-duty social networking and on-duty social networking can be easily blurred, and their jobs could be at stake.(JF)
Leinwand, Donna. “Survey: 1 in 5 teens ‘sext’ despite risks.” USA Today (n.d.).
This article discusses a new survey on kids in cyberspace. The statistics suggest that one in five teens have “sexted”—sent or received sexually suggestive, nude or sexually suggestive, nude or nearly nude photos through cell phone text messages, e-mail, or through social networking. Although teens say they recognize the dangers of sharing personal information online, they do it anyway. Parents need to teach their kids the consequences of putting information online. (KA)
Pack, Thomas. “Keeping Cyberteens Safe.” Information Today 23.4 (Apr. 2006): 37-39.
This article discusses the importance of monitoring the influence of the Internet on teenagers. Social networking Web sites let people post user profiles, share photographs, write blogs and send e-mails throughout an online community. Stories have surfaced in the U.S. media to warn parents about the dangers that teenagers face with regard to social networking sites, including racism, indecent photographs, online threats and sexual predators. Good article for concerned adults who would like to implement safety when using the Internet. (KA)
Salter, Michael, and Chris Bryden. “I can see you: harassment and stalking on the Internet.” Information & Communications Technology Law 18.2 (June 2009): 99-122. Library, Information Science & Technology Abstracts.
Learn about the potential for ‘virtual’ harassment or ‘cyber-stalking’, along with the possibility of increased threats, alarm, distress, slander and physical danger that go hand in hand with real world harassment the more widely available access to the Internet. The recent explosion in casual exchange of personal information following the growth of sophisticated social networking platforms, opens further the possibility of acquiring an unwanted connection with an obsessive party. (KA)
Willard, Nancy. “Social Networking, Part 2: A Toolkit for Teachers.” Multimedia & Internet@Schools Jul/Aug. 2006: 18-21.
Nancy Willard thoroughly explains the dangers teachers and students should look out for when using social networking sites (cyberbullying, sexual predators, addiction, etc...). Educators should read this article to understand that many students are unaware that what they post online can be shared with everyone. In addition, many times parents and educators themselves are not paying attention to the dangers that students can be exposed to. The comprehensive list in this article should be reviewed to understand the many risks and dangers associated with social networking. Educators are also urged to make both students and parents aware of these dangers because students need to use good judgment if they are exposed to any dangers on social networking sites at home. (JF) Websites:
Prabhu, Maya T. “Schools grapple with teachers' Facebook use: As online social networks explode in popularity, administrators wonder: Is it OK for teachers to ‘befriend’ their students online?” eSchool News, 2008. <http://www.eschoolnews.com/news/top-news/related-top-news/index.cfm?i=55535>
Another danger that educators need to be aware of is the fine line between teacher and friend. This article discusses acceptable social behavior between students and educators, and warns educators to be cautious when they become ‘close friends’ with their students online. Educators also should not give preferential treatment to students they are ‘friends’ with, and if social networking sites are used, educators need to make a clear agreement with students about what is and what isn’t acceptable behavior. (JF)
"Predators on Social Networks." Security – About Internet / Network Security. <http://netsecurity.about.com/od/newsandeditoria2/a/socialpredators.htm>
Social networking is all the rage. Various web sites have sprung up for the sole purpose of providing a place for users to express themselves, share with like-minded individuals, discover new things, and communicate with others. The bottom line is that social networking is hugely popular and it is big business. Unfortunately, child molesters, sexual predators, and scam artists have discovered that these sites can also be exploited to find victims. (KA)
"Internet Dangers." ProtectKids.com - Making the Internet Safer for Children and Families. <http://www.protectkids.com/dangers/>
This Web site highlights Internet Dangers to kids online with specific focus on the sexual exploitation of children. The Internet is a tool that can be used for good and evil and this site provides rules and tools for protecting children in cyberspace, ways to report a cybercrime, news stories and statistics. (KA)
Enough is Enough: Protecting our Children Online. <http://enough.org/inside.php?id=2UXKJWRY8>
This site is designed as a public awareness tool, a training manual and a “take action” plan for parents and others involved in the supervision of children. By utilizing this website, you are increasing your awareness of the issues surrounding child safety online and thereby becoming better equipped to ensure that your child’s online experience is safe, educational and entertaining. (KA)
"Living with Technology: Keep your kids safe online: Top 5 Internet dangers for kids - CNET.com." Product reviews and prices, software downloads, and tech news - CNET. <http://www.cnet.com/4520-13384_1-6721368-1.html>
This site discusses the top 5 Internet dangers for kids; data theft, malicious software, inappropriate content, cyber bullying, and predators. It also includes a handy checklist you can print and tape to your child’s shared or personal computer plus links to further resources. (KA)
"What You Should Know About Dangers of the Internet." IU South Bend: Information Technologies. <http://it.iusb.edu/pdf/dangerous-internet.pdf>
This site explains that the Internet has a dark side, and most people are completely unaware of the pitfalls, which come with this relatively new and fascinating online world. This site offers information on securing your home computer and explains common computer terminology (viruses, worms, trojans, spyware, spybots, keyloggers, hijackers, downloaders, dialers, backdoor) associated with malicious adware. (KA)
Videos:
(LEFT) Young Web comedians created this public service announcement on the unknown dangers of the Internet. (KA) "YouTube - MAKE 'EM LAUGH: Teh Internets | Dangers of the Web | PBS." YouTube - Broadcast Yourself.
(RIGHT) This video investigates the dangers of social networking amongst young people. (KA)
"YouTube - Social Networking...Dangerous?" YouTube - Broadcast Yourself.
What can parents and teachers do to help protect students on social networking sites? Keywords: Parent Guide on Social Networking, Social Networking Appropriate Use, Teaching Students how to be safe with social networks, Online Social Networks" OR "Social Networking," tips OR guidelines, parents OR teachers OR educators
Books:
Jakubiak, David. Smart kid's guide to social networking online. New York: Power Kid's Press, 2009.
A great visually appealing and easy to read book that teaches young students how to be safe when using social networking sites. Educators should definitely use this as a resource when trying to explain proper behaviors and safety guidelines to students. The information is presented in a way that would appeal to younger students, and it explores kid-friendly social networking options that would help students make good judgments when venturing online. Explaining social networking to young students can be difficult, so educators should definitely look to this book as a guide. (JF)
Rosen, Larry D. Me, Myspace, and I: Parenting the Net Generation. New York: Palgrave Macmillan, 2007.
While the book discusses some of the dangers involved in young peoples' use of social networking sites, the book focuses not on scaring parents, but making them better informed about why and how young people use these sites. The book gives great tips on how parents can be proactive and help their children to avoid potential dangers or problems when using social networking sites. (ML)
Smith, Gregory S. How to Protect Your Children on the Internet: A Roadmap for Parents and Teachers. Westport, CT: Praeger, 2007. This book provides plenty of sound advice and helpful guidelines in this easy-to-read book on wise use of the Internet. Organized into six chapters, this informative yet uncomplicated text includes important guidelines pertaining to general Web safety; the ins and outs of sending and receiving e-mail; commonsense advice on surfing; how to use chat rooms, newsgroups, and mailing lists; proper netiquette; and publishing on the Web. While Part 1 of the book focuses on the potential dangers of online use for children and teenagers, Part 2 is a guide to protecting young people, focusing on monitoring and blocking software, safe social networking sites for kids to use, and talking to children and young people about internet and social networking use, and developing contracts for appropriate use between kids and parents. A practical book for students and adults. (KA + ML)
Willard, Nancy E. Cyber-safe Kids, Cyber-savvy Teens: Helping Young People Learn to Use the Internet Safely and Responsibly. San Francisco, CA: John Wiley & Sons, Inc, 2007.
This book provides parents with important strategies to help teach their kids how to use the internet safely and responsibly. Nancy Willard emphasizes that children can apply real world skills and knowledge about safety to the cyber-world and that it is more important to continue to communicate with your child rather than block them from accessing websites. This would be a great resource for both teachers and educators because parenting strategies can be used both at home and at school. (JF)
Journal Articles:
Couros, Alec. “Safety and social networking.” Technology & Learning Feb. 2008: 20-22.
Alec Couros presents parents and educators with some real stories of social networking gone wrong. However, he then presents some safe and healthy rules to follow that can keep educators, students, and parents safe and aware of the dangers of social networking. Educators can learn a lot from this resource because it specifically teaches educators to evaluate social networking sites (looking at its tools, content, and design) before joining it. He also suggests that a great way to communicate to students is with other older students who can teach younger students about how to use social networking sites appropriately. Finally educators can look at the list of suggested social networking sites and security systems and explore the many options of safe social networking. (JF)
Kranich, Nancy. “Librarians and teen privacy in the age of social networking.” Knowledge Quest Nov/Dec. 2007: 34-37.
This article is directed towards public and school librarians who can use this resource to learn about privacy laws and safety issues with social networking. It emphasizes the librarian’s role in raising internet safety awareness in students, patrons, and parents and provides suggestions on how librarians can ensure that young people experience a safe environment online. One great suggestion that this resource provides is for librarians to create a library presence on social networking sites that can provide information on how to be safe in online networks. A great quote form this resource is “Education, not laws blocking access is the key to safe use of the internet.” (JF)
Sharples, M., Graber R., Harrison, C., Logan, K. "E-Safety and Web 2.0 for children aged 11-16." Journal of Computer Assisted Learning. 25.2. (2009): 75-84.
This article includes the results of a study asking 11-16 year-olds about their online and social networking use. The article is especially useful for this "insider's perspective," offering great information on how and why young people use social networking and web 2.0 resources online. The article also focuses on kids' understanding of the difference between online and face-to-face friendships. The article also makes the suggestion that schools begin to use social networking sites, despite potential risks, in order to teach students how to use these sites safely and appropriately. (ML)
Willard, Nancy. "Stranger Danger." School Library Journal. 53.3. (2007): 24.
This article veers away from typical "fear based" strategies to keeping kids safe online, pointing out that these types of warnings are often ineffective. Rather than telling young people to avoid any contact with new people on social networking sites, the article offers children advice and tips on how to be smart and safe when interacting with strangers online. A discussion of behaviors that children can use to prevent unwanted attention while online to determine the safety of an online stranger, and to safely meet with an online stranger is presented. This is an excellent resource, since it offers useful tips on "stranger literacy," as Willard dubs it, rather than simply telling young people to avoid this kind of interaction all together. (ML + KA)
YALSA. "Teens and Social Networking in School and Public Libraries: A Toolkit for Librarians and Library Workers." ALA, 2008. Available at: <http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/yalsa/profdev/SocialNetworkingToolkit_Jan08.pdf>.
This is an excellent resource from the Young Adult Library Services Association that takes a very positive view on social networking and provides school librarians and educators with a thorough description of what social networking is and how it can facilitate learning in schools and libraries. In addition to giving information on the potential benefits of social networking sites, the article offers great suggestions on how to educate teens both on how to use social networking resources and, during these programs, discuss with teens how to safely and appropriately use social networking sites. It also gives specific examples of how educators can apply social networking to their classrooms and provides URL's of libraries and schools currently using social networking safely and effectively. This is a great resource for educators looking to promote safe social networking use in their school or library. (ML + JF).
Websites:
“A Parent’s Guide to Social Networking Sites: Five Lessons to Keep your Kids Safe when they Socialize Online.” McAfee, n.d. <http://us.mcafee.com/en-us/local/docs/SocialNetworkinge-guide.pdf>
This guide provided by McAfee provides parents with five lessons about social networking. Presented in a visually appealing and easy to scan manner, parents will enjoy reading this guide and can learn important facts about social networking and how to keep their children safe from online dangers. This guide contains exercises for parents to do such as: staying informed about safety procedures, talking to their children and setting guidelines, and creating their own social networking page to learn about its uses. Parents and educators will also appreciate reading about the ‘warning signs’ that could indicate if your child is a victim of online dangers. Finally the guide presents steps of what to do if your child is an online victim. (JF)
Aftab, Parry. "Blog Sites, Profile Sites, Diary Sites, or Social Networking Sites." Wired Kids, Inc. <http://www.wiredsafety.org/internet101/blogs.html>.
This is an excellent resource for parents, focusing on how best to talk to teens and children about safety, security, and privacy in relation to social networking sites. This emphasis on talking to kids about appropriate use makes this an excellent resource for parents who want to make their kids smarter internet users. The page also has a link to a PDF offering "Quick Tips" to both teens and parents on social networking site safety and security. (ML)
Bahk, Candace. "Let's Talk About Social Networking." bNetS@vvy, 2008. <http://bnetsavvy.org/wp/let%E2%80%99s-talk-about-social-networking/>.
This is a great website for parents, teachers, and students, offering great information about online safety in general. However, there is a specific "Social Networking" page that offers lots of tips and advice on being safe on social networking sites, such as avoiding posting personal, making kids easier to find in real life, or sexually provocative posts or photographs, and effectively using privacy settings. This page in particular offers great information for parents, explaining the basics of social networking, and some key tips to keeping kids safe. However, the entire site is a great resource, and parents should explore the site to learn more about online and social networking safety. The site also offers all pages in both English and Spanish, a great feature that allows a wider audience to learn about these topics (ML)
OnGuardOnline. "Hot Topic: Social Networking." ikeepsafe.org, 2006. <http://www.ikeepsafe.org/PRC/topics/?action=display_article&article_id=54>.
This page offers a great list of tips on how parents can make sure their kids are safe on social networking sites, including what to talk to kids about, using privacy settings, and how to monitor kids' use of sites to make sure they are safe. A smart and practical guide to making sure children and teens are safe when using social networking sites. (ML). Willard, Nancy. “Schools and Online Social Networking.” Education World, 2006. <http://www.education-world.com/a_issues/issues/issues423.shtml>
Nancy Willard, an expert on benefits and risks of social networking sites has provided educators with a list of safety concerns associated with using social networking sites and gives suggestions of what schools can do to ensure the safety of their students. She discusses some schools use of filtering software and warns educators of how students frequently try to bypass these systems. She also provides a list of safety rules students should follow when using social networking sites (ex. think before you post, report concerns, communicate with parents). (JF)
Willard, Nancy. “Social Networking Safety: A Guide for Parents.” Future of Children, n. d. <http://www.futureofchildren.org/usr_doc/snssafety.pdf> This website is a great short handout that summarizes how parents should approach their kids about making good choices on social networking sites. Educators should definitely have this in hand if they need something to hand out to parents when discussing safety and privacy issues in social networking. The best part of this resource is that it also explains to parents why children and teens might make bad decisions online, this way they can learn how to prevent them from making these mistakes and encourage safer practices. Instead of just giving parents solutions, this web page also offers suggestions on how parents can let their own kids think of the solutions to safety issues which helps them develop critical thinking and analyzing skills. (JF) Videos:
Want to find out if your child has a facebook and if they are using it safely?
On the left is a video that shows parents how to check their children's facebook and on the right is a video that teaches parents how to set privacy settings. (JF)
What are the types of social networking sites?
Profile-based Social Networking services - pages that consist of information about an individual member, including interests, likes, dislikes, photos, etc... (Ex. Facebook, myspace)
Content-based Social Networking services - User's profile is secondary to the content they post (Ex. For Photos: flickr ; For videos: youtube.com, teachertube.com ; For book-lovers: shelfari.com)
Multi-user Virtual Environments - Online virtual environments that allows users avatars to interact with each other (Ex. Secondlife, World of Warcraft)
Micro-blogging/presence updates - Allows users to publish short messages to each other and can show status updates (Ex. twitter)
What are Social Networking websites?Social Networking websites provide "a virtual community for people interested in a particular subject or to 'hang-out' together" (McAfee). They allow people to create profiles, interact, connect, and collaborate with other members. Through social networking websites, members can share documents, share photos, chat, leave messages, and play virtual games together. Social networking has become extremely popular among children and teen communities and is growing in prevalence in the adult community as well. Therefore, due to the large number of participants on social networking websites and the many tools social networking has to offer, educators have started to utilize it in schools. Social networking sites offer educators and students many different opportunities, benefits and forms of communication and collaboration. If used effectively, social networking sites can enhance both teaching and learning experiences and create a much more interactive classroom. However, as with all new technology, there are risks and dangers associated with social networking websites. To name a few, children could be exposed to internet predators, scam artists, child molestors and malicious adware. Therefore, it is important that parents and educators are aware of both the benefits and risks associated with social networking so they can enforce safe social networking practices both in school and at home. The resources on this wiki will help educators and parents understand the many uses and risks of social networking sites and provide guidelines and suggestions on how to use social networking sites successfully, effectively and safely.
Still confused about social networking?
Watch this video developed by common craft that describes social networking in plain English:
Social Networking has become so imbedded in students' lives that the National School Boards Association has conducted a research study to analyze its impact on students' lives. To learn about what students are doing on social networking sites and to see some statistics about social networking read this study: http://www.nsba.org/site/docs/41400/41340.pdf (JF)
Essential Questions:
1. How can social networking sites be used in schools in a positive way to enhance education?
2. What are the potential dangers of social networking?
3. What can parents and teachers do to help protect students on social networking sites?
How can social networking sites be used in schools in a positive way to enhance education?
Keywords: education, social networks, social networking benefits in classroom, educators using social networking sites, social networking tools for educators, students and social networking
Books:
Farkas, Meredith G. “Social Software in Libraries: Building Collaboration, Communication, and Community Online.” Medford, NJ: Information Today, Inc, 2007.
This book describes the many types of social software that school and public libraries can benefit from today. Educators can learn about different types of social networking software such as blogs, RSS, photo-sharing and much more. This book also contains stories about how librarians have successfully implemented these tools into their libraries and discusses its tremendous impact on students and patrons. (JF)
Richardson, Will. "Blogs, Wikis, Podcasts, and Other Powerful Web Tools for Classrooms." California: Corwin Press, 2008.
This book shows educators at all levels and disciplines how to use digital tools to create relevant, interactive learning experiences. (SK)
Journal Articles:
Boule, Michelle. "Go With the Flow" School Library Journal 2008: Nov. 2008: 50-52.
The article presents several talking points for those interested in promoting the use of social Web-based applications like social networking sites or blogs in school libraries. The article explains how social software can enhance learning by improving communication skills among other things, how to prevent students from accessing inappropriate material, and methods for protecting students' personal information when they are online. (SK)
Cook, Glenn. “Social networking can work for K-12 educators.” American School Board Journal Sept. 2007: 6-7.
As students spend more and more time online in social networking sites, educators need to start embracing web 2.0 tools and take advantage of the many benefits social networking tools have to offer. This article provides recommendations on different uses of social networking tools such as: staff communication, professional development, homework assistance, creative teaching methods, and increasing educational value. School leaders need to bring 21st century skills to their students and social networking is one of the best ways to achieve this goal. (JF)
Demski, Jennifer. "Facebook Training Wheels." THE Journal Apr. 2009: 24-28.
The article discusses the use of online social networking websites to help schools incorporate technology into academics. The author profiles a technology director of the Ramapo Central School District who is using Saywire, an an online social networking and learning site designed specifically for in-house use by schools and students, to teach students about the usefulness of community websites. (SK)
DiScipio, Tim. “Adapting Social Networking to Address 21st-Century Skills.” Multimedia & Internet@Schools Oct. 2008: 10-11.
This article tells educators to look at ‘social networking’ as a ‘social learning network’ and provides examples of how social networking tools can be effectively utilized in a classroom. One of the main points this article emphasizes is the importance of helping students learn how to collaborate with peers and educators, and how through social networking sites, students can gain valuable skills as well as broaden their perspectives and culture awareness. These tools, when chosen thoughtfully, implemented appropriately and combined with innovative pedagogy through Internet-connected communities, can teach students the necessary skills to thrive in the 21st century. (SK + JF)
Kitsis, Stacy M. “The Facebook Generation: Homework as Social Networking.” English Journal Nov. 2008: 30-36.
Both students and educators are growing tired of the traditional paper and pen ways of submitting and grading papers. This article discusses how educators can place homework on social networking sites, which can make students value their work more, and allow both educators and students to provide feedback. Kitsis argues that many students “shut down” when they do not feel like they are writing to a real audience. Therefore, by placing homework on social networking sites, it no longer just feels like an assessment, it is a chance for individual practice and students are more likely to put effort into work that they know their peers will read. This article also gives accounts of educators’ personal experiences with using blogs, e-mail, and workplaces to enhance collaboration, cooperation, and collective learning in their classrooms. (JF)
Lefkowits, Laura. "A New Face for Schools." American School Board Journal July 2008: 18-19.
The article discusses the use of social networks to improve academic achievement for students. The author describes purposeful communities, social networks focused on producing specific outcomes through specific procedures, and compares them to social networking websites. She notes how networking websites allow users to exercise collective efficacy as well as police themselves and establish standards of conduct. Despite the use of online social networks for educational purposes, schools have banned their use. (SK)
Richardson, Will. "Becoming Network-Wise." Educational Leadership Mar. 2009: 26-31.
This article discusses the ways in which schools and educational leaders can make students more technologically literate. Students must learn to use connective online technologies like blogs, Wikis, and online social networking sites in order to be successful in the future. The author points out that students must not merely be able to use these technologies on a daily basis but must also be able to create personal connections online. (SK)
Sawchuk, Stephen. “Sites mimicking social networks set up for staff development.” Education Week Aug. 2008: 17-18.
In the past, it has been very hard for teachers who live thousands of miles away from each other to collaborate, but now with the internet and social networking tools, teachers that live in different countries can get together and learn from each other. This article discusses how novice teachers can now very easily learn from others and social networking sites help set up teacher-mentoring programs and assist with professional development. In addition, this article provides examples of many schools that are now converting regular websites and web portals into possible social networking sites (ones that have a more rigorous entry requirement in order to ensure that you really are an educator). These types of ‘social networks’ are designed for teachers that are not exactly ‘tech-savvy’ and want to make sure that they are collaborating with actual educators. (JF)
Stewart, Paulette. "Facebook and Virtual Literature Circle Partnership in Building a Community of Readers." Knowledge Quest Apr. 2009: 28-33. This article focuses on the collaboration project of a high school librarian to conduct an experiment with a virtual literature circle using Facebook. It notes that the librarian has been outlining the educational benefits that social scholarship can provide for her students. (SK)
Websites:
Kirkpatrick, Marshall. "How one teacher uses twitter in the classroom." ReadWriteWeb. <http://www.readwriteweb.com/archives/how_one_teacher_uses_twitter_in_the_classroom.php>
A university history professor uses Twitter to promote discussion in a large class. (SK)
"25 interesting Ways to Use Twitter in the Classroom." Creative Commons <http://docs.google.compresentview?id=dhn2vcv5_118 cfb8msf8>
25 ways to use Twitter in the classroom (SK)
Croasdaile, Susanne. "Social Networking with Students." Virginia Department of Education's Training and Technical Assistance Center (T/TAC) at VCU <http://udl4literacy.pbworks.com/Social-networking-with-students>
Step by step instructions for teachers new to using wikis, blogs, podcasts (SK)
Harris, Christopher. "School Library 2.0: Say Goodbye to Your Mother's School Library." School Library Journal, 2006.
<http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com/article/CA6330755.htmlschool%20library>
SLJ article discussing the digitally reshifted library and librarians and what media specialists must/should know to survive in the future (SK)
Hargadon, Steve. "Moving Toward Web 2.0 in K-12 Education." stevehargadon.com, 2008. <http://www.stevehargadon.com/2008/10/moving-toward-web-20-in-k-12-education.html>
Benefits of using Web 2.0 (including social networking sites) in schools (SK)
"Social Networks in Education." Wikispaces, Creative Commons. <http://socialnetworksined.wikispaces.com/>
Wiki providing links to educational sites using social networks (SK)
Smith, Fran. "How to Use Social-networking Technology for Learning." Edutopia, 2007. <http://www.edutopia.org/how-use-social-networking-technology>
Why teachers should embrace networking, and how they can use it to improve education. (SK)
What are the potential dangers of social networking?
Keywords: Dangers of Social Networking, Problems with Social Networks, Protecting Your Kids Online,
Dangers on the internet, Security issues, cyber-bullying, risks of social networking
Books:
Espejo, Roman. Should My Space and Other Social Networking Websites Be Banned? (At Issue). New York: Greenhaven P, 2008.
This book explores different views about whether or not social networking sites should be banned, how they can be used as a teaching tool, how they are dangerous for children, and the important role they play in young people’s lives. While Espejo addresses the not so nice aspects of social networking including sexual predators, and child pornography, he also draws attention to its benefits and ways to keep minors safe. (KA)
Illian, Jason. MySpace®, MyKids A Parent's Guide to Protecting Your Kids and Navigating MySpace.com. New York: Harvest House, 2007.
MySpace has become a haven for teens and young adults, a virtual hangout where friends (and strangers) share thoughts, pictures, music, video, and more. Parent’s naturally wonder if they should be concerned and what they can do to protect their kids. In this valuable guide, Illian demonstrates that with careful use and close monitoring, MySpace can help kids facilitate relationships and help parents understand and interact with their children’s technology managed world. (KA)
Magid, Larry, and Anne Collier. MySpace Unraveled A Parent's Guide to Teen Social Networking. New York: Peachpit P, 2006.
This is a hand-on book that explores how teens are using MySpace and ways to help your kids use it safely. Magid and Collier remove the fear and hype surrounding social networking and take a clear-eyed look at what is really going on in online teen hangouts. They look at how young people are changing the Internet and how to guide them as they navigate the social Web. (KA)
Rothman, Kevin F. Coping With Dangers on the Internet A Teen's Guide to Staying Safe Online (Coping). New York: Rosen Group, 2000.
In this book, Rothman succeeds at informing inexperienced users, reminds the experienced what to be cautious of while using the Internet, and tells readers to be constantly aware while on-line. A page of common acronyms used in chat rooms and a page of emoticons will be helpful to new users. An enlightening and practical book. (KA)
Journal Articles:
Carter, Heather L., Foulger, Teresa S., Ewbank, Ann Dutton. “Have you Googled your Teacher Lately?: Teacher's Use of Social Networking Sites” Phi Delta Kappan May 2008: 681-685.
This article provides educators with real stories of some of the risks of using social networking in and outside of the classroom. By reading these situations, educators can learn how to avoid repeating other people’s mistakes and how to effectively use social networking sites while avoiding the dangers associated with it. After reading this article, educators should know how to separate personal sites from professional sites, understand that if they want to put something online make sure it is something they don’t mind sharing with the world, and avoid using inappropriate content (even if it is just meant for friends). While teachers do have free speech, the line between off-duty social networking and on-duty social networking can be easily blurred, and their jobs could be at stake.(JF)
Leinwand, Donna. “Survey: 1 in 5 teens ‘sext’ despite risks.” USA Today (n.d.).
This article discusses a new survey on kids in cyberspace. The statistics suggest that one in five teens have “sexted”—sent or received sexually suggestive, nude or sexually suggestive, nude or nearly nude photos through cell phone text messages, e-mail, or through social networking. Although teens say they recognize the dangers of sharing personal information online, they do it anyway. Parents need to teach their kids the consequences of putting information online. (KA)
Pack, Thomas. “Keeping Cyberteens Safe.” Information Today 23.4 (Apr. 2006): 37-39.
This article discusses the importance of monitoring the influence of the Internet on teenagers. Social networking Web sites let people post user profiles, share photographs, write blogs and send e-mails throughout an online community. Stories have surfaced in the U.S. media to warn parents about the dangers that teenagers face with regard to social networking sites, including racism, indecent photographs, online threats and sexual predators. Good article for concerned adults who would like to implement safety when using the Internet. (KA)
Salter, Michael, and Chris Bryden. “I can see you: harassment and stalking on the Internet.” Information & Communications Technology Law 18.2 (June 2009): 99-122. Library, Information Science & Technology Abstracts.
Learn about the potential for ‘virtual’ harassment or ‘cyber-stalking’, along with the possibility of increased threats, alarm, distress, slander and physical danger that go hand in hand with real world harassment the more widely available access to the Internet. The recent explosion in casual exchange of personal information following the growth of sophisticated social networking platforms, opens further the possibility of acquiring an unwanted connection with an obsessive party. (KA)
Willard, Nancy. “Social Networking, Part 2: A Toolkit for Teachers.” Multimedia & Internet@Schools Jul/Aug. 2006: 18-21.
Nancy Willard thoroughly explains the dangers teachers and students should look out for when using social networking sites (cyberbullying, sexual predators, addiction, etc...). Educators should read this article to understand that many students are unaware that what they post online can be shared with everyone. In addition, many times parents and educators themselves are not paying attention to the dangers that students can be exposed to. The comprehensive list in this article should be reviewed to understand the many risks and dangers associated with social networking. Educators are also urged to make both students and parents aware of these dangers because students need to use good judgment if they are exposed to any dangers on social networking sites at home. (JF)
Websites:
Prabhu, Maya T. “Schools grapple with teachers' Facebook use: As online social networks explode in popularity, administrators wonder: Is it OK for teachers to ‘befriend’ their students online?” eSchool News, 2008. <http://www.eschoolnews.com/news/top-news/related-top-news/index.cfm?i=55535>
Another danger that educators need to be aware of is the fine line between teacher and friend. This article discusses acceptable social behavior between students and educators, and warns educators to be cautious when they become ‘close friends’ with their students online. Educators also should not give preferential treatment to students they are ‘friends’ with, and if social networking sites are used, educators need to make a clear agreement with students about what is and what isn’t acceptable behavior. (JF)
"Predators on Social Networks." Security – About Internet / Network Security. <http://netsecurity.about.com/od/newsandeditoria2/a/socialpredators.htm>
Social networking is all the rage. Various web sites have sprung up for the sole purpose of providing a place for users to express themselves, share with like-minded individuals, discover new things, and communicate with others. The bottom line is that social networking is hugely popular and it is big business. Unfortunately, child molesters, sexual predators, and scam artists have discovered that these sites can also be exploited to find victims. (KA)
"Internet Dangers." ProtectKids.com - Making the Internet Safer for Children and Families. <http://www.protectkids.com/dangers/>
This Web site highlights Internet Dangers to kids online with specific focus on the sexual exploitation of children. The Internet is a tool that can be used for good and evil and this site provides rules and tools for protecting children in cyberspace, ways to report a cybercrime, news stories and statistics. (KA)
Enough is Enough: Protecting our Children Online. <http://enough.org/inside.php?id=2UXKJWRY8>
This site is designed as a public awareness tool, a training manual and a “take action” plan for parents and others involved in the supervision of children. By utilizing this website, you are increasing your awareness of the issues surrounding child safety online and thereby becoming better equipped to ensure that your child’s online experience is safe, educational and entertaining. (KA)
"Living with Technology: Keep your kids safe online: Top 5 Internet dangers for kids - CNET.com." Product reviews and prices, software downloads, and tech news - CNET. <http://www.cnet.com/4520-13384_1-6721368-1.html>
This site discusses the top 5 Internet dangers for kids; data theft, malicious software, inappropriate content, cyber bullying, and predators. It also includes a handy checklist you can print and tape to your child’s shared or personal computer plus links to further resources. (KA)
"What You Should Know About Dangers of the Internet." IU South Bend: Information Technologies. <http://it.iusb.edu/pdf/dangerous-internet.pdf>
This site explains that the Internet has a dark side, and most people are completely unaware of the pitfalls, which come with this relatively new and fascinating online world. This site offers information on securing your home computer and explains common computer terminology (viruses, worms, trojans, spyware, spybots, keyloggers, hijackers, downloaders, dialers, backdoor) associated with malicious adware. (KA)
Videos:
(LEFT) Young Web comedians created this public service announcement on the unknown dangers of the Internet. (KA)
"YouTube - MAKE 'EM LAUGH: Teh Internets | Dangers of the Web | PBS." YouTube - Broadcast Yourself.
(RIGHT) This video investigates the dangers of social networking amongst young people. (KA)
"YouTube - Social Networking...Dangerous?" YouTube - Broadcast Yourself.
What can parents and teachers do to help protect students on social networking sites?
Keywords: Parent Guide on Social Networking, Social Networking Appropriate Use, Teaching Students how to be safe with social networks,
Online Social Networks" OR "Social Networking," tips OR guidelines, parents OR teachers OR educators
Books:
Jakubiak, David. Smart kid's guide to social networking online. New York: Power Kid's Press, 2009.
A great visually appealing and easy to read book that teaches young students how to be safe when using social networking sites. Educators should definitely use this as a resource when trying to explain proper behaviors and safety guidelines to students. The information is presented in a way that would appeal to younger students, and it explores kid-friendly social networking options that would help students make good judgments when venturing online. Explaining social networking to young students can be difficult, so educators should definitely look to this book as a guide. (JF)
Rosen, Larry D. Me, Myspace, and I: Parenting the Net Generation. New York: Palgrave Macmillan, 2007.
While the book discusses some of the dangers involved in young peoples' use of social networking sites, the book focuses not on scaring parents, but making them better informed about why and how young people use these sites. The book gives great tips on how parents can be proactive and help their children to avoid potential dangers or problems when using social networking sites. (ML)
Smith, Gregory S. How to Protect Your Children on the Internet: A Roadmap for Parents and Teachers. Westport, CT: Praeger, 2007.
This book provides plenty of sound advice and helpful guidelines in this easy-to-read book on wise use of the Internet. Organized into six chapters, this informative yet uncomplicated text includes important guidelines pertaining to general Web safety; the ins and outs of sending and receiving e-mail; commonsense advice on surfing; how to use chat rooms, newsgroups, and mailing lists; proper netiquette; and publishing on the Web. While Part 1 of the book focuses on the potential dangers of online use for children and teenagers, Part 2 is a guide to protecting young people, focusing on monitoring and blocking software, safe social networking sites for kids to use, and talking to children and young people about internet and social networking use, and developing contracts for appropriate use between kids and parents. A practical book for students and adults. (KA + ML)
Willard, Nancy E. Cyber-safe Kids, Cyber-savvy Teens: Helping Young People Learn to Use the Internet Safely and Responsibly. San Francisco, CA: John Wiley & Sons, Inc, 2007.
This book provides parents with important strategies to help teach their kids how to use the internet safely and responsibly. Nancy Willard emphasizes that children can apply real world skills and knowledge about safety to the cyber-world and that it is more important to continue to communicate with your child rather than block them from accessing websites. This would be a great resource for both teachers and educators because parenting strategies can be used both at home and at school. (JF)
Journal Articles:
Couros, Alec. “Safety and social networking.” Technology & Learning Feb. 2008: 20-22.
Alec Couros presents parents and educators with some real stories of social networking gone wrong. However, he then presents some safe and healthy rules to follow that can keep educators, students, and parents safe and aware of the dangers of social networking. Educators can learn a lot from this resource because it specifically teaches educators to evaluate social networking sites (looking at its tools, content, and design) before joining it. He also suggests that a great way to communicate to students is with other older students who can teach younger students about how to use social networking sites appropriately. Finally educators can look at the list of suggested social networking sites and security systems and explore the many options of safe social networking. (JF)
Kranich, Nancy. “Librarians and teen privacy in the age of social networking.” Knowledge Quest Nov/Dec. 2007: 34-37.
This article is directed towards public and school librarians who can use this resource to learn about privacy laws and safety issues with social networking. It emphasizes the librarian’s role in raising internet safety awareness in students, patrons, and parents and provides suggestions on how librarians can ensure that young people experience a safe environment online. One great suggestion that this resource provides is for librarians to create a library presence on social networking sites that can provide information on how to be safe in online networks. A great quote form this resource is “Education, not laws blocking access is the key to safe use of the internet.” (JF)
Sharples, M., Graber R., Harrison, C., Logan, K. "E-Safety and Web 2.0 for children aged 11-16." Journal of Computer Assisted Learning. 25.2. (2009): 75-84.
This article includes the results of a study asking 11-16 year-olds about their online and social networking use. The article is especially useful for this "insider's perspective," offering great information on how and why young people use social networking and web 2.0 resources online. The article also focuses on kids' understanding of the difference between online and face-to-face friendships. The article also makes the suggestion that schools begin to use social networking sites, despite potential risks, in order to teach students how to use these sites safely and appropriately. (ML)
Willard, Nancy. "Stranger Danger." School Library Journal. 53.3. (2007): 24.
This article veers away from typical "fear based" strategies to keeping kids safe online, pointing out that these types of warnings are often ineffective. Rather than telling young people to avoid any contact with new people on social networking sites, the article offers children advice and tips on how to be smart and safe when interacting with strangers online. A discussion of behaviors that children can use to prevent unwanted attention while online to determine the safety of an online stranger, and to safely meet with an online stranger is presented. This is an excellent resource, since it offers useful tips on "stranger literacy," as Willard dubs it, rather than simply telling young people to avoid this kind of interaction all together. (ML + KA)
YALSA. "Teens and Social Networking in School and Public Libraries: A Toolkit for Librarians and Library Workers." ALA, 2008. Available at: <http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/yalsa/profdev/SocialNetworkingToolkit_Jan08.pdf>.
This is an excellent resource from the Young Adult Library Services Association that takes a very positive view on social networking and provides school librarians and educators with a thorough description of what social networking is and how it can facilitate learning in schools and libraries. In addition to giving information on the potential benefits of social networking sites, the article offers great suggestions on how to educate teens both on how to use social networking resources and, during these programs, discuss with teens how to safely and appropriately use social networking sites. It also gives specific examples of how educators can apply social networking to their classrooms and provides URL's of libraries and schools currently using social networking safely and effectively. This is a great resource for educators looking to promote safe social networking use in their school or library. (ML + JF).
Websites:
“A Parent’s Guide to Social Networking Sites: Five Lessons to Keep your Kids Safe when they Socialize Online.” McAfee, n.d. <http://us.mcafee.com/en-us/local/docs/SocialNetworkinge-guide.pdf>
This guide provided by McAfee provides parents with five lessons about social networking. Presented in a visually appealing and easy to scan manner, parents will enjoy reading this guide and can learn important facts about social networking and how to keep their children safe from online dangers. This guide contains exercises for parents to do such as: staying informed about safety procedures, talking to their children and setting guidelines, and creating their own social networking page to learn about its uses. Parents and educators will also appreciate reading about the ‘warning signs’ that could indicate if your child is a victim of online dangers. Finally the guide presents steps of what to do if your child is an online victim. (JF)
Aftab, Parry. "Blog Sites, Profile Sites, Diary Sites, or Social Networking Sites." Wired Kids, Inc. <http://www.wiredsafety.org/internet101/blogs.html>.
This is an excellent resource for parents, focusing on how best to talk to teens and children about safety, security, and privacy in relation to social networking sites. This emphasis on talking to kids about appropriate use makes this an excellent resource for parents who want to make their kids smarter internet users. The page also has a link to a PDF offering "Quick Tips" to both teens and parents on social networking site safety and security. (ML)
Bahk, Candace. "Let's Talk About Social Networking." bNetS@vvy, 2008. <http://bnetsavvy.org/wp/let%E2%80%99s-talk-about-social-networking/>.
This is a great website for parents, teachers, and students, offering great information about online safety in general. However, there is a specific "Social Networking" page that offers lots of tips and advice on being safe on social networking sites, such as avoiding posting personal, making kids easier to find in real life, or sexually provocative posts or photographs, and effectively using privacy settings. This page in particular offers great information for parents, explaining the basics of social networking, and some key tips to keeping kids safe. However, the entire site is a great resource, and parents should explore the site to learn more about online and social networking safety. The site also offers all pages in both English and Spanish, a great feature that allows a wider audience to learn about these topics (ML)
OnGuardOnline. "Hot Topic: Social Networking." ikeepsafe.org, 2006. <http://www.ikeepsafe.org/PRC/topics/?action=display_article&article_id=54>.
This page offers a great list of tips on how parents can make sure their kids are safe on social networking sites, including what to talk to kids about, using privacy settings, and how to monitor kids' use of sites to make sure they are safe. A smart and practical guide to making sure children and teens are safe when using social networking sites. (ML).
Willard, Nancy. “Schools and Online Social Networking.” Education World, 2006. <http://www.education-world.com/a_issues/issues/issues423.shtml>
Nancy Willard, an expert on benefits and risks of social networking sites has provided educators with a list of safety concerns associated with using social networking sites and gives suggestions of what schools can do to ensure the safety of their students. She discusses some schools use of filtering software and warns educators of how students frequently try to bypass these systems. She also provides a list of safety rules students should follow when using social networking sites (ex. think before you post, report concerns, communicate with parents). (JF)
Willard, Nancy. “Social Networking Safety: A Guide for Parents.” Future of Children, n. d. <http://www.futureofchildren.org/usr_doc/snssafety.pdf>
This website is a great short handout that summarizes how parents should approach their kids about making good choices on social networking sites. Educators should definitely have this in hand if they need something to hand out to parents when discussing safety and privacy issues in social networking. The best part of this resource is that it also explains to parents why children and teens might make bad decisions online, this way they can learn how to prevent them from making these mistakes and encourage safer practices. Instead of just giving parents solutions, this web page also offers suggestions on how parents can let their own kids think of the solutions to safety issues which helps them develop critical thinking and analyzing skills. (JF)
Videos:
Want to find out if your child has a facebook and if they are using it safely?
On the left is a video that shows parents how to check their children's facebook and on the right is a video that teaches parents how to set privacy settings. (JF)
What are the types of social networking sites?
To learn more about different types of social networking sites visit: http://www.digizen.org/socialnetworking/what.aspx (JF)
Some social networking sites educators may find useful:
CLICK TO ZOOM IN ON CONCEPT MAP
All web links were checked and current July 11-13, 2009